Navy rear admiral (1840–1902) who served as commander of the US blockading and North Atlantic squadrons during the Spanish-American War of 1898. Prior to the war, he served in a variety of assignments and rose to rank of Captain by 1890 and later became a Rear Admiral. He was appointed President of the USS Maine Court of Inquiry, the group that was responsible for the investigation of the incident in Havana harbor. Original 4.25 x 6.5 cabinet photo of Sampson in uniform, by Parker Studios of Washington, D. C., signed below the image in black ink, “W. T. Sampson, U. S. N.” In fine condition, with a bit of mild toning to borders, and a trivial crease to top left corner tip. RR Auction COA.
